ISLAMABAD: Pakistani firms in different sectors of economy have become less productive in the past two to three years, so advanced technologies are needed to maximize production, reports WealthPK.
A representative of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research told WealthPK that production firms in Pakistan have to undergo strong reforms to improve productivity. In order to increase the quality of products, a high-tech production process is needed, he added.
Productivity decline is seen across different types of firms located in different parts of the country, though stronger contractions can be identified for family-owned firms. Lack of resources and scarcity of inputs has led to a decrease in productivity in the agriculture sector.
He said biotechnology is another field that continues to make breakthroughs. Advances in seed science are making crops more resistant to drought, pests and infestation, boosting agricultural productivity and increasing the resilience of food producers to environmental shocks.
He said diseases could be removed from the crops through ultra-high-resolution imaging. This technology can spot early symptoms of diseases, water stress and soil degradation, while drones spray fertilizer, pesticides, and water with pinpoint accuracy.
“Prevention of diseases among the farm animals remains a global challenge. Using high-end technologies like body sensors, which measure pulse, temperature and blood pressure, can help identify illnesses, prevent herd infection, and improve food technology,” he said.
The food security and research ministry official said by using sensors to monitor and measure warehouse production levels, automated reordering could be implemented and inventory costs could be reduced. Chips and sensors can also help extend the shelf life of inputs and reduce post-harvest losses by monitoring the optimal storage conditions, he added.
“Technology is one of the reasons for this resurgence. We are seeing the rise of automation and robotics in many sectors. Some restaurants are now using robots to deliver food and deploying self-ordering kiosks for customers. The policy challenges for manufacturing are enormous. The country needs to invest in infrastructure, reform tax policy, and boost trade and global markets. The world is at an inflection point in a number of these areas, and there are many threats to globalization and free trade today,” he added.
He said company owners could easily use technology to create a secure environment. Many businesses that rely on tech do so, because it gives them a way to keep customer data safe. Programs are also much more user-friendly and this helps the businesspersons having little experience with tech to ensure that they are making the most of their features and tools. Farms need to place advanced technology in their areas to compete with their competitors.
